Some people don’t know the importance of organizing their medical records. This is really quite unfortunate since keeping a basic record of your medical history and that of your immediate family members can help ensure accurate medical care, especially in the case of an emergency.
Now that you know the importance of organizing your medical information, here are some tips that can help you get started.
Call your family doctor and request for a copy of your family’s medical records. You may also ask your doctor to help you find other places where you may have a medical record (e.g. hospital, etc.). You will need to sign a release form at every facility you request records from and may be asked to pay for copies of your records as well. Use this Medical Information Worksheet to organize your medical information in one place.
You may adopt a paper filing system using a 3-ring binder or a wire-bound notebook, or use any software program to organize your family’s medical information. You may also want to store your health records online by subscribing to a web-based service. Using an online program usually has its perks (sends alerts if a drug you are taking has been recalled or when a family member has a medical emergency, reminds you when you need to schedule a follow-up, etc.), but make sure the service you choose is private and secure.
Make a wallet-size card containing all of your vital medical information (emergency contacts, health insurance information, doctors’ names and contact information, allergies and medications taken regularly). Put this card next to your insurance card and leave one copy on your refrigerator since EMTs usually check it in case of an emergency.
Organizing medical records is important not only for your health but for your financial wellbeing as well. Aside from making sure that you receive accurate medical attention, organizing your family’s billing information will help ensure that all benefits are paid out accurately.
However, please be warned that using your credit card to pay for your medical bills is a big no-no since it imposes high interest rates and does not offer flexible terms. For more tips on how to manage your finances better, download this free ebook “17 Money Hacks” from Wela, a digital financial advisor that combines technology and traditional advisors to deliver financial planning tools and advice.
Are you ready to lead a more organized life? Check out our book: My Journey to an Organized Life for more tips on how to get started on the road to a more organized life. You will also find invaluable organizing worksheets for Assets, Medical Information, Personal Information, and Legal Information inside the pages of this valuable resource.
If you need help in organizing your personal and professional life, please call us at 410-329-3300(MD) or at 770-733-1957 (GA), or send us an email at info@absolutely-organized.com.. We will be more than happy to be of help.